Highland heather and misty mountains - July 2016

On a brief break in Scotland, Jo and I were very taken by the beauty of nature's giant monuments, with low lying clouds snaking their way around the mountains.

We visited picturesque Loch Lomond, a lake which inspired the title of my song... about someone pretending to be there, whilst standing on a tropical seashore.

We then travelled further north into the more remote region which is particularly wild. In one high spot, the rocks, moss, lakes and streams all appeared to be claiming from each other. We then descended into Glen Coe, particularly impressive with its steep rocky facades disappearing into the mist. It also had a strange atmosphere where you could almost hear the cries from an ancient massacre...

Even further north we drove past mist shrouded Ben Nevis and stopped by Loch Ness. No monster in sight, so I guess she was busy in her subterranean lair.

The castle of Eilean Donan, dating back hundreds of years and featured in the film Highlander, amazing with its position within the loch was an extraordinary sight and a fun visit. The nearby rugged island of Skye was equally special, and of course I thought of the Skye boat song on the ferry between Skye and the mainland. We also visited the spot where Bonnie Prince Charlie allegedly landed.

On our way to visit friends in Ballater, the road wound over the windy mountain tops, giving the most incredible views of a symphonic landscape.

What an magnificent place Scotland is. I'm haunted by its beauty and history. It's featuring in my mind in song and I already feel the need to return...